2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2012 BMW X5. (265 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 870 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 BMW X5 (576 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4. 2012 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z4 | X5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1775 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 85 L |
